Canon U.S.A. and Vinten Announce Collaboration to Maximize Image-Stabilization

From Broadcast Buyer's Guide

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., April 10, 2007 – Canon U.S.A., Inc.’s DIGISUPER 100xs and DIGISUPER 86xs long-field zoom lenses are world famous for their Optical Shift Image Stabilizer (“Shift-IS”) technology, which capture rock-solid images in crystal-clear HD even at telephoto distances. Now the capabilities of these advanced HD lenses have been further maximized by an exclusive technology collaboration between Canon and Vinten, a leading manufacturer of tripods, pedestals, pan/tilt heads, camera robotics, and other innovative camera-support solutions.

The Canon-Vinten collaboration integrates the advanced capabilities of Canon’s Shift-IS lens technology with the high-resolution optical encoders built into Vinten’s new Vector 950 Active pan/tilt heads. The special encoders in the Vector 950 Active provide output that is fully compatible with the Canon HD lenses. The result is the elimination of any trace of lag after fast pan or tilt shots – a great advantage in the production of fast-paced HDTV sporting and entertainment events.

“We are very excited to be collaborating with Canon’s Broadcast Division to once again bring the tools of the trade to the next level of technology,” said Ali Ahmadi, product and marketing manager for Vinten products for the Americas. “Just as Canon continually pushes the technology envelope to provide ever-greater product performance for its customers, so too does Vinten. Both companies emphasize quality and technology in their products.”

The Vinten-Canon technology collaboration debuted at this year’s Super Bowl when a Sony HD camera, supported by Vinten’s new Vector 950 Active pan/tilt head and outfitted with Canon’s DIGISUPER100xs (model XJ100x9.3BIE-D) long-field HD zoom lens, was used to capture the exciting, fast-paced action.

“The exclusive technology collaboration between Canon and Vinten takes Canon’s superior Shift IS Image-Stabilizer system and makes it an even greater tool for camera operators when combined with Vinten’s Vector 950 Active head,” said Gordon Tubbs, director, Broadcast and Communications division, Canon U.S.A. “We are honored to participate in this exclusive technology collaboration with Vinten, a company that is so highly respected in the broadcast and production industry.”

Currently two of Canon’s most popular field lenses – the DIGISUPER 100xs and DIGISUPER 86xs – are compatible with the new Vinten Vector 950 Active. This compatibility is a no-cost, built-in standard feature of Canon’s DIGISUPER 100xs and DIGISUPER 86xs lenses. “Canon’s Shift-IS Image-Stabilizer system is an important advancement that has been applauded by the broadcast community and this collaboration just makes it better,” noted Tubbs.

Vinten’s Vector 950 Active pan/tilt head offers camera operators improved picture control and better performance in a smaller and more robust package. The Vector 950 Active features infinitely adjustable TF drag, tilt-axis deadlock, an illuminated leveling bubble and pan-and-tilt brake levers positioned for ease of use. In addition, a new spring counterbalance system allows up to ±90° of perfectly counterbalanced camera tilt. The Vector 950 Active is relatively light and compact, allowing for easier set-up, repositioning and minimal storage space.

Canon’s DIGISUPER 100xs and DIGISUPER 86xs long-field HD zoom lenses are the most widely used lenses in HD sports and entertainment production. (The DIGISUPER 100xs was the world’s first triple-digit HD zoom lens). At NAB2007, Canon will add to its DIGISUPER product line with the introduction of the DIGISUPER 100AF and DIGISUPER 86AF* Auto Focus models. All Canon DIGISUPER lenses feature the HD optical precision and heightened long-range zoom capabilities that have made Canon a global leader. All of Canon’s DIGISUPER HD field lenses also feature Canon’s unique XS technology for improved optical performance and lighter weight.

Canon DIGISUPER 27 and 27AF HD Lenses

From Image-Acquire.com:

Canon unveiled its two new HD lenses for specific HDTV studio applications. Both DIGISUPER 27 and DIGISUPER 27AF integrate superior technology to deliver stunning results. The lenses feature newly developed multi-layer optical coatings resulting in reduced ghosting and flaring. Incorporating Digital Servo System the lenses achieves maximum servo-zoom speed of 0.5 seconds. The system helps the operator to get better focus and zooming control.

The DIGISUPER 27AF has been optimized to render benefits of auto-focus technology for creation of the highest quality HD video images to be used by HDTV studios. With Part-time, Full-time and off Auto Focus the operator gets flexibility to capture digital media in assisted or unassisted modes. Both models also feature a new, optional, remote-controllable macro-focus, enabling the operator to perform macro focusing from the pan bar.

Via: Canon

Canon XJ86 Lens Takes A Hit And Still Works At American League Championship Series

Covering Major League Baseball can be hard on HD broadcast lenses. Just ask Corplex Mobile Television, the Lake Bluff, IL-based production company responsible for producing live coverage of the American League Championship Series (on TBS) between the New York Yankees and the Texas Rangers on Wednesday night.

In Game 4 during the bottom of the fourth inning, Yankee outfielder Brett Gardner hit a pitch and broke his bat, the end of which flew towards the Yankees dugout and hit a nearby $150,000 Canon XJ86x9.3B lens on a Sony HDC-1500 HD camera. The bat head broke the lens' protection filter and scratched the front element, causing the camera operator to frame his shots for the rest of the game through a tiny hole in the face of the lens. But the Canon lens and the Sony camera kept on working.

CANON HD TELEPHOTO LENSES WITH AUTO FOCUS AND IMAGE STABILIZATION ENHANCE “ARENA STYLE” WORSHIP EXPERIENCE

From Broadcast Engineering:

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., March 1, 2010 – Trinity Fellowship Church (TFC), in Amarillo, Texas, enhances its worship experience with large-screen HD video image magnification of services and sermons in the church’s new 4,000-seat “in the round” sanctuary. Essential to providing this video support are volunteer camera operators from the congregation who must capture tight, steady telephoto shots of dynamic preachers moving about the stage as they speak. Confronted with the challenge of maintaining razor-sharp focus while continually tracking these movements, TFC chose to outfit its four HD cameras with XJ86×9.3B AF long-zoom Auto Focus HD lenses with Image Stabilization from Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging.

“Video reinforcement is very important for an in-the-round environment,” explained Michael Wells, executive director of production at TFC. “In this configuration only a quarter of the crowd can see the face of the preacher at

Canon DIGISUPER Lenses Capture Live HD Images of Space Shuttle Launch

From Television Broadcast:

While very few humans get the chance to travel on the space shuttle, even fewer get to be near the launch pad when astronauts begin their historic journeys. An array of Canon HD lenses, however, enabled the 24-hour all-high definition television network HDNet to take viewers where few have gone before to witness the launch of the Space Shuttle Atlantis, mission STS 115, on the morning of Saturday, September 9th.

HDNet, transmitting in 1080i HDTV to a wide range of cable and satellite television providers, relied on the triple-digit-zoom capabilities of the Canon DIGISUPER 100xs HD lens, as well as the superior HD optics of the Canon DIGISUPER 86xs and DIGISUPER 75xs long field HD lenses to ensure that the full power of the launch of the space shuttle—which could be the most complex machine ever built—was dramatically conveyed to television viewers. “A space shuttle launch is a magnificent thing to see, and there is no better way to see it than in HD,” says Philip Garvin, Co-Founder and General Manager of HDNet. “Our Canon lenses bring tremendous presence and resolution to HDNet’s coverage, and since NASA doesn’t allow people to be where they do allow many of the cameras and lenses, viewing it in HD is actually better than being there.”

Capable of a 1860 mm focal length and equipped with Canon’s innovative Shift-IS Image Stabilization technology, the DIGISUPER 100xs lens is charged with the special mission of tracking space shuttles as they accelerate into the cosmos for at least 176,000 feet, which amounts to 33 miles into the Earth’s atmosphere. “We have the Canon DIGISUPER 100xs lens deployed on a special rig that tracks the shuttle into the sky, and we switch to that camera and lens directly after liftoff,” Garvin explains. “When you combine the strength of that lens with the resolution of HD, it’s like you’re right up there with the space shuttle.”

The launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS 115 was a significant one, marking NASA’s first addition to the International Space Station in almost four years. During three spacewalks, crewmembers of Atlantis installed the P3/P4 integrated truss and a second set of solar panels that will double the orbiting outpost’s ability to generate electrical power from sunlight and add 17.5 tons to its mass.

With the Canon DIGISUPER 100xs lens on hand, complemented by the Canon DIGISUPER 86xs and DIGISUPER XJ75xs HD lenses at various locations on or near the launch pad, HDNet knew it would provide the best possible imagery to cover the beginning of this critical mission . “Canon optics are excellent—they always compare favorably in our evaluations,” says Garvin. “We also feel that we enjoy a great relationship with Canon’s engineering and sales staff. They absolutely deliver on their promise of prompt support, whether the event is a shuttle launch, NASCAR race, basketball, or football.”

The DIGISUPER 100xs lens is the world’s first triple-digit zoom lens and is one of four in Canon’s line of DIGISUPER long field lenses intended for both HDTV and SDTV production. This product line also includes: the DIGISUPER 86x lens (offered in the XJ86x9.3BIE-D standard version and the XJ86x13.5BIE-D telephoto version); the DIGISUPER 75xs lens (XJ75x9.3BIE-D); and the DIGISUPER 60xs lens (XJ60x9BIE-D).

Canon’s unique second-generation built-in Image Stabilization (or Shift-IS) system enables directors and producers to capture rock-solid images from telephoto distances with crystal clarity and deliver them virtually shake-free to viewing audiences. The DIGISUPER lens line also features Canon’s XS technology for improved optical performance and lighter weight, courtesy of Canon’s exclusive Power Optical System. And all Canon DIGISUPER lenses incorporate the company’s second-generation Digital Servo System, which provides microcomputer compensation of lens focus breathing (the inadvertent alteration of field of view when operating the focus control) as well as a host of other improved digital operational features for focus and zooming control. Canon’s DIGISUPER lenses deliver precision HDTV and SDTV production performance and heightened long-range zoom capabilities, features that have made Canon a standard of excellence in sports, entertainment, and studio production.

On location from astronaut suit-up to launch with Canon HD lenses, HDNet is helping to enlighten a whole new generation of viewers on the importance and majesty of space flight. “We feel strongly that our coverage has renewed people’s passion for watching launches, simply because it’s so amazing to see in HD,” Philip Garvin observes. “When you embark on a broadcast mission this important, you look for suppliers that will really go to work for you—Canon is one that we can count on.”

For more information on HDNet, visit http://www.hd.net/.

CANON U.S.A. ANNOUNCES DIGISUPER 27 HD STUDIO LENS AT IBC 2007

From Broacast Equipment Guide:

As HDTV program production continues to accelerate, Canon U.S.A., Inc. continues to improve High-Definition lens technology with new and advanced features for enhanced performance and ease-of-use. Canon’s latest addition to its acclaimed line of HD lenses is the DIGISUPER 27 studio lens (model XJ27x6.5B IE-D), which is being introduced at IBC 2007, the International Broadcasting Conference held in Amsterdam, Holland, from September 7 to 11. This new HD lens along with Canon’s industry-leading HD studio, field, portable and cine lenses can be seen at Stand No. 11.431, at the RAI Convention Center.

“The DIGISUPER 27 is the successor to the DIGISUPER 25xs, which is the most popular HD studio lens in the world,” stated Gordon Tubbs, director, Broadcast and Communications division, Canon U.S.A. “This lens is the evolutionary ‘next step’ in HD studio lenses for Canon, and the broadcast industry. It’s wider, has a bigger zoom ratio and features newly developed multi-layer optical coatings that dramatically reduce ghosting and flaring.”

With the widest angle of any lens available, the DIGISUPER 27 has a focal length of 6.5mm to 180mm. The lens offers the optional BWA-271 0.9x Wide Attachment, the industry’s first wide-angle attachment for an HD studio lens. This “zoom-through” Wide Attachment enables users to begin with a wide shot and go telephoto without experiencing negative effects on light transmission. This feature alters the range of the zoom on wide settings by ten percent toward the wide side, making a new zoom range of 5.85mm to 162mm.

Improvements in the new Canon DIGISUPER 27 also include a servo-zoom speed of 0.5 seconds and a new optional remote-controllable macro-focus feature that allows the camera operator to perform macro focusing from the pan bar (a helpful tool for focusing on jewelry and other small objects).

As with Canon’s other DIGISUPER HD studio lenses, the new DIGISUPER 27 features the highest possible optical quality and is among the best HD studio lenses available today. Canon, a world leader in optics, utilizes advanced technologies in its lens design and manufacturing processes, including advanced computer-aided design techniques, special optical materials, and specialized multi-layer coatings on each optical element. All Canon DIGISUPER lenses incorporate the second-generation Digital Servo System, which makes zoom and focus controls precise and repeatable.

Canon’s Digital Servo System provides microcomputer compensation of lens focus-breathing (the inadvertent alteration of field of view when operating the focus control) as well as a host of other improved digital operational features for focus and zooming control. These include an information display that enables the camera operator to select and customize zoom-servo settings.

The DIGISUPER 27 is equipped with virtual output as a standard feature, thanks to unique Canon built-in encoders. This positional data output provides added versatility and allows for greater precision of both the zoom and focus controls.

Canon HDTV Lenses Chosen by Mobile Producer Game Creek Video to Capture Super Bowl XLII Action for Worldwide Telecast

From The Briefing Room,

As the final seconds ticked away on the thrilling action of Super Bowl XLII, in Glendale Ariz., the New York Giants were not the only team that would emerge triumphant from the contest. Game Creek Video, a leading mobile production company, had captured every moment of football’s greatest annual event in full HDTV (high definition television) for a worldwide audience. With so much riding on its coverage of this second-most-watched broadcast in U.S. TV history, the Hudson N.H.-based company chose only the best production equipment, and this included an array of HD lenses from Canon U.S.A., Inc.’s Broadcast and Communications division.

“This being our first Super Bowl, we wanted to make sure everything went right,” declared Pat Sullivan, president of Game Creek Video (and former general manager of the New England Patriots from 1985-91). “We feel very confident using Canon HD lenses with our reputation at stake for live events. Our camera operators love them, and we’ve had nothing but success dealing with Canon from a support standpoint. It is an outstanding company to work with.”

To cover the game, which was broadcast in both HD and SD (standard definition), Game Creek Video used 15 Canon DIGISUPER 100xs (XJ100×9.3B IE-D) long-zoom HD field lenses and four DIGISUPER 86xs (XJ86×9.3B IE-D) long-zoom HD field lenses, all of which feature Shift-IS, Canon’s unique second-generation built-in Optical Shift Image Stabilizer Technology. For the crucial “All-22 Camera” position, the wide-angle performance of Canon’s DIGISUPER 22xs (XJ22×7.3B IE-D) compact studio lens was used in the stadium to capture shots showing all 22 players simultaneously. Game Creek Video also employed four HJ11ex4.7B IRSE wide-angle portable eHDxs lenses and two HJ22ex7.6B IRSE portable eHDxs ENG zoom lenses. Handling the pre- and post-game telecast were three Canon DIGISUPER 25xs (XJ25×6.8BIE-D) HD studio lenses, as well as one HJ22ex7.6B IRSE lens and two HJ11ex4.7B IRSE lenses.

These same Canon HD lenses were on-hand two weeks earlier in Green Bay, Wis. to cover the NFC Championship Game. Temperature at kickoff was below zero, with the wind chill factor at -24°, but the lenses performed flawlessly, according to Sullivan. “We wrapped the cameras and lenses in heating blankets, and they performed without a hitch,” he said. “I think you always anticipate that there may be some kind of compromise in your equipment in those types of conditions, but the good stuff always holds up well.”

“We were extremely happy with the quality of all our Canon HD lenses, from the DIGISUPER 100xs to the 4.7x wide-angle hand-held lens,” commented Michael Davies, director of FOX Sports Field Operations, regarding Super Bowl XLII. “In the spirit of evolution and trying something new, we’re excited to probably be the first to use the DIGISUPER 22xs Compact Studio lens [model XJ22×7.3B IE-D] on our ‘All-22 Camera’ as well. Also, we were happy with the results of the Canon DIGISUPER 86xs on our [Vision Research Phantom V10] Inertia Unlimited Hyper Slow Motion camera, which had some of the evening’s most memorable and written-about replays. As usual, Canon came in with an army of support and good ideas on what was an exceptionally smooth and well-received Super Bowl for us.”

Canon’s DIGISUPER 100xs is the world’s first triple-digit long-zoom HD field lens. Both the DIGISUPER 100xs and DIGISUPER 86xs HD lenses used by Game Creek Video for Super Bowl XLII feature Canon’s exclusive Shift-IS built-in Image Stabilization system, which enables television directors to capture dramatic high-impact telephoto shots and deliver this video shake-free to the viewing audience. These advanced HD lenses also feature Canon U.S.A.’s XS technology for superior optical performance and lighter weight, as well as Canon U.S.A.’s second-generation Digital Servo System, which provides microcomputer compensation of lens focus breathing (the inadvertent alteration of field of view when operating the focus control) as well as a host of other improved digital operational features for focus and zooming control. Precision HD production performance and heightened long-range zoom capabilities are features that have made Canon U.S.A.’s DIGISUPER field zoom lenses the standard of excellence in HDTV sports production.

“We wanted to use mostly long-zoom HD lenses for the game production because we wanted to give the director maximum flexibility,” Sullivan explained. “Having so many powerful zoom lenses throughout the stadium allowed him to get close, dramatic shots of players, coaches, and important plays from any angle, which is especially important if a play has to be reviewed by the officials.”

The world-leading optical excellence of Canon’s portable HD lenses was also integral to Game Creek Video’s successful Super Bowl XLII coverage. Canon’s HJ11ex4.7B IRSE eHDxs lens is the widest angle-of-view portable HD production lens offered by the Company. The HJ22ex7.6B IRSE portable eHDxs ENG zoom lens is Canon’s longest-focal-length portable HD production lens (without an image stabilization system). Both lenses bear the designation “eHDxs,” which indicates not only Canon’s exclusive XS technology, but also the highly innovative control features of Canon’s unique eDrive technology. With eDrive, users can easily program such functions as zoom and focus settings into a lens for precise, automated repeatability via an easy-to-use LCD menu, assignable “soft” function buttons, and the rocker switch built into the lens grip. With the fast-moving action of professional football, this time-saving function can be critical for capturing that game-winning moment.

To cover pre- and post-game studio shows, Game Creek Video employed Canon’s DIGISUPER 25xs HD studio lens, which is the most popular HD studio lens in the world. Engineered to deliver the most demanding image quality for HD television production, the DIGISUPER 25xs is the product of advanced technologies and manufacturing processes, including supercomputer-aided design techniques and special optical materials. Like its long-zoom counterparts, the DIGISUPER 25xs also features Canon’s XS technology and second-generation Digital Servo System.

“Canon designs all of its HD lenses – portable, studio and field – to deliver superb video images with crystal clarity,” added Gordon Tubbs, director, Broadcast and Communications division, Canon U.S.A., Inc. “We are honored that a leading mobile production company and a leading broadcast network were both impressed with the results, which were seen by the second-largest audience in U.S. TV history.”

For Sullivan, knowing that over a billion people worldwide were watching the game through Game Creek Video’s Canon U.S.A. HD lenses provided him with confidence. “The Super Bowl is the most watched event in television every year, so we know how important it is that we put our best foot forward,” he concluded. “By exclusively using Canon lenses, we know that we did just that.”

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer, business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions. Its parent company, Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ), a top patent holder of technology, ranking third overall in the U.S. in 2007†, with global revenues of $34.9 billion, is listed as one of Fortune’s Most Admired Companies in America and is on the 2007 BusinessWeek list of “Top 100 Brands.” To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting www.usa.canon.com/pressroom.

Vinten unveils Shift-IS support for legacy Canon DIGISUPER lenses

From Broadcast Engineering

The Vinten Vector 950 Active pan/tilt head, which complements Canon Broadcast's Optical Shift Image Stabilizer (Shift-IS) lens stabilization technology, can now be used with most existing Canon HD field Shift-IS lenses.
The Vector 950 Active is a heavy-duty pan/tilt head designed to carry studio and OB cameras equipped with large zoom lenses weighing up to 264lbs. Vinten's intelligent, integral, real-time digital electronic positioning technology allows for precise and accurate pan-and-tilt data from the head to be transmitted to the stabilization systems of Canon's DIGISUPER 100xs and DIGISUPER 86xs long-field zoom lenses. That technology is now also available as an optional upgrade on the DIGISUPER 100xs, DIGISUPER 86xs II and DIGISUPER 75xs legacy models equipped with Canon's Shift-IS lens technology.
Special encoders in the Vector 950 Active provide pan-and-tilt data, which is linked through a high security protocol to the Canon lens where it is processed to maximize the performance of the Shift-IS image stabilization system. The result is a dynamic image stabilization system that can determine intentional camera movement from unintentional vibration.
For more information, visit http://www.vinten.com/.

Canon's Compact Digisuper 22xs HDTV Lenses Provide Studio Performance For Portable Cameras

From Creative Cow

(LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., September 18, 2006) As increasing numbers of television viewers purchase high definition (HD) TVs, broadcasters are responding by upgrading their facilities for HDTV program production and broadcasting. Cox Broadcasting's WFTV, the ABC affiliate in Orlando, recently purchased three Canon DIGISUPER 22xs Compact HD Studio Lenses (model XJ22x7.3B IE-D) for their news studio. The Canon DIGISUPER 22xs Compact HD Studio Lens is an entirely new lens category that allows users to configure more cost-effective HD studio camera systems.

"WFTV is transitioning to HDTV for its studio newscasts," notes Sterling Davis, vice president of engineering at Cox Broadcasting. "In a market that's heavily cabled with HD capacity, Orlando's WFTV is the first of Cox's stations to begin the transition to HDTV and has received many positive emails and phone calls about its HDTV telecasts."

"The age of HDTV has arrived, and Canon has designed the DIGISUPER 22xs Compact HD Studio Lens for those stations that wish to use portable HD cameras in the studio," explains Gordon Tubbs, assistant director of the Broadcast and Communications division at Canon U.S.A., Inc., a subsidiary of Canon Inc. "The DIGISUPER 22xs Compact HD Studio Lens provides top-quality ‘box lens' optical performance in a form factor sized appropriately to portable HD cameras configured for studio operation. The DIGISUPER 22xs Compact HD Studio Lens exceeds the image quality of any portable HD lens at a very economical price point. It's the best of both worlds."

The DIGISUPER 22xs Compact HD Studio Lens is a high-end optical system squarely based upon classic studio lens design principles but carefully constrained to a physical size and weight commensurate with that of contemporary portable production cameras (which typically weigh in at about 15 lbs.). A wide 105mm input optical port and novel new optical design has produced a high sensitivity, high contrast, and optimized uniformity of brightness across the image plane that is truly impressive for such a compact lens. Weighing in at 13.4 lbs., the lens is only a third the weight of a typical HD studio box lens. The DIGISUPER 22xs Compact HD Studio Lens is ideal for broadcasters and producers who require a high-performance but cost-effective, compact HD studio lens-camera package that can be supported on a modest-size pedestal or sturdy tripod system. Such a low-weight combination is also ideal for robotic system applications.

WFTV's purchase of three DIGISUPER 22xs Compact HD Studio Lenses is part of the station's historic transition to HD broadcasting, which also included construction of a redesigned newsroom set and the purchase of new HD cameras and HD news and weather graphics systems. WFTV began broadcasting in HD in June and is the first Cox station to transition to HDTV.

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.
Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer, business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions. The company is listed as one of Fortune's Most Admired Companies in America and is rated #35 on the BusinessWeek list of "Top 100 Brands." Its parent company Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ) is a top patent holder of technology, ranking second overall in the U.S. in 2005, with global revenues of $31.8 billion. For more information, visit http://www.usa.canon.com/

Canon’S Compact DIGISUPER 22xs HDTV Lenses Provide Studio Performance for Portable Cameras

From Broadcast Buyers Guide

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., September 18, 2006 -- As increasing numbers of television viewers purchase high definition (HD) TVs, broadcasters are responding by upgrading their facilities for HDTV program production and broadcasting. Cox Broadcasting’s WFTV, the ABC affiliate in Orlando, recently purchased three Canon DIGISUPER 22xs Compact HD Studio Lenses (model XJ22x7.3B IE-D) for their news studio. The Canon DIGISUPER 22xs Compact HD Studio Lens is an entirely new lens category that allows users to configure more cost-effective HD studio camera systems.

“WFTV is transitioning to HDTV for its studio newscasts,” notes Sterling Davis, vice president of engineering at Cox Broadcasting. “In a market that’s heavily cabled with HD capacity, Orlando’s WFTV is the first of Cox’s stations to begin the transition to HDTV and has received many positive emails and phone calls about its HDTV telecasts.”

“The age of HDTV has arrived, and Canon has designed the DIGISUPER 22xs Compact HD Studio Lens for those stations that wish to use portable HD cameras in the studio,” explains Gordon Tubbs, assistant director of the Broadcast and Communications division at Canon U.S.A., Inc., a subsidiary of Canon Inc. “The DIGISUPER 22xs Compact HD Studio Lens provides top-quality ‘box lens’ optical performance in a form factor sized appropriately to portable HD cameras configured for studio operation. The DIGISUPER 22xs Compact HD Studio Lens exceeds the image quality of any portable HD lens at a very economical price point. It’s the best of both worlds.”

The DIGISUPER 22xs Compact HD Studio Lens is a high-end optical system squarely based upon classic studio lens design principles but carefully constrained to a physical size and weight commensurate with that of contemporary portable production cameras (which typically weigh in at about 15 lbs.). A wide 105mm input optical port and novel new optical design has produced a high sensitivity, high contrast, and optimized uniformity of brightness across the image plane that is truly impressive for such a compact lens. Weighing in at 13.4 lbs., the lens is only a third the weight of a typical HD studio box lens. The DIGISUPER 22xs Compact HD Studio Lens is ideal for broadcasters and producers who require a high-performance but cost-effective, compact HD studio lens-camera package that can be supported on a modest-size pedestal or sturdy tripod system. Such a low-weight combination is also ideal for robotic system applications.
WFTV’s purchase of three DIGISUPER 22xs Compact HD Studio Lenses is part of the station’s historic transition to HD broadcasting, which also included construction of a redesigned newsroom set and the purchase of new HD cameras and HD news and weather graphics systems. WFTV began broadcasting in HD in June and is the first Cox station to transition to HDTV.

Canon’s New DIGISUPER 100AF and DIGISUPER 86AF Lenses Continue the Legacy of Highly Regarded HD Lenses for Sports and Entertainment Production

From Internetvideomag.com

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., April 10, 2007 – The tremendous picture detail contained in High Definition television (HDTV) makes anything in less-than-perfect focus immediately obvious.  As a result, shooting HD video poses new challenges for camera operators, who must simultaneously pay close attention to picture framing and physical control of their camera and lens, while also continually maintaining sharp focus of selected objects within complex scenes.

Canon U.S.A., Inc.’s extensive experience in long-zoom HD field-lens design provides a unique understanding of the challenges that HDTV presents to camera operators, which is why Canon developed a powerful new automated solution to assist in the task of maintaining constant and perfect HD lens focus.  The new Canon DIGISUPER 100AF and DIGISUPER 86AF* auto-focus long-field HD zoom lenses feature sophisticated auto-focus capabilities based on a proprietary HD implementation of Through-the-Lens Secondary Image Registration Phase Detection Method technology.  These new lenses will be featured at the Canon booth #SU 3020 at NAB2007, the annual convention of the National Association of Broadcasters, held April 14-19 in Las Vegas.

“Our new DIGISUPER 100AF and DIGISUPER 86AF lenses are designed to help camera operators ensure that their shots are always in exact focus, even in challenging situations,” said Gordon Tubbs, director, Broadcast and Communications division, Canon U.S.A.  “These lenses assist camera operators to create the highest quality video images possible – operators know they can always achieve exact focus with the push of a button.  This is especially helpful in situations where the operator is unsure due to poor lighting or cannot otherwise determine exact focus just by looking at the viewfinder.

“In addition to the Part-Time focus-check mode there’s a Full-Time mode to help camera operators during long shoots.  Either way, the Canon DIGISUPER 100AF and DIGISUPER 86AF auto-focus lenses enable camera operators to apply their full attention to the creative aspects of framing HD images and following the action in the scene,” said Tubbs.

The Canon DIGISUPER 100AF and DIGISUPER 86AF lenses (model numbers XJ100x9.3B AF and XJ86x9.3B AF, respectively) create an operator-controllable window in the HD camera’s viewfinder that targets the object operators want to focus most sharply on in the scene.  Camera operators can change the window’s position and size by means of a miniature joystick on the camera handle’s focus servo control.  An additional button provides three modes of operation:

1)      Part-Time – actuates the auto-focus system as long as a control button is depressed.

2)      Full-Time – actuates the auto-focus continually on selected moving objects such as racing cars (which might be speeding toward the camera position), or for shooting situations entailing full-servo robotic operation.

3)      Off – allows for normal, unassisted lens focus.

In addition to their auto-focus capabilities, Canon’s new DIGISUPER 100AF and DIGISUPER 86AF long-field HD zoom lenses feature Canon’s highly acclaimed built-in Optical Image Stabilizer, or “Shift-IS” system, to help create rock-solid images even at telephoto distances.

The DIGISUPER 100AF and DIGISUPER 86AF lenses are based on Canon’s DIGISUPER 100xs and DIGISUPER 86xs long-field HD zoom lenses, which are among the most widely used lenses in HD sports and entertainment production.  (The Canon DIGISUPER 100xs was the world’s first triple-digit HD zoom lens.)

All Canon DIGISUPER lenses feature the HD optical precision and heightened long-range zoom capabilities that have made Canon a global leader.  All of Canon’s DIGISUPER HD field lenses also feature Canon’s unique XS technology for improved optical performance and lighter weight, as well as Canon’s second-generation Digital Servo System, which provides microcomputer compensation of lens-focus breathing (the inadvertent alteration of field of view when operating the focus control).

The new DIGISUPER 100AF and DIGISUPER 86AF long-field HD auto-focus zoom lenses are Canon’s latest advancements designed to provide camera operators with the industry’s most sophisticated tools for television production.

To keep apprised of the latest news from Canon U.S.A., sign up for the Company’s RSS news feed by visiting the press release section of http://www.usa.canon.com/.

About Canon U.S.A., Inc.

Canon U.S.A., Inc. delivers consumer, business-to-business, and industrial imaging solutions.  The company is listed as one of Fortune's Most Admired Companies in America and is on the 2006 BusinessWeek list of “Top 100 Brands.”  Its parent company Canon Inc. (NYSE:CAJ) is a top patent holder of technology, ranking third overall in the U.S. in 2006^†, with global revenues of $34.9 billion.  For more information, visit www.usa.canon.com.

Canon HD Standard Zoom Lens Digisuper 86AF & 100AF

From DigInfo,

Digisuper 86AF & 100AF
Canon

High precision, high resolution images have a shallow depth of field and are often difficult to focus on manually, so today's broadcasting lenses require accurate focus precision more so than ever before.

The DIGISUPER 86AF and DIGISUPER 100AF are HDTV compatible field zoom lens equipped with auto focus functions on the DIGISUPER 86xs and the DIGISUPER 100xs. The DIGISUPER 86AF offers a magnification of 86x, while the DIGISUPER 100AF provides magnification of 100x.

The DIGISUPER series feature two modes including FULL TIME AF and the PART TIME AF. The ACTIVE and HOLD switches that turn the AF function ON or OFF are combined in each mode, so each mode can be used at the appropriate time based on shooting conditions.

Canon introduces DIGISUPER 100AF, 86AF auto-focus lenses

From Broadcast Engineering,

Canon has developed a new automated solution to assist in maintaining constant HD lens focus.
The new Canon DIGISUPER 100AF and DIGISUPER 86AF auto-focus long-field HD zoom lenses feature sophisticated capabilities based on a proprietary HD implementation of Through-the-Lens Secondary Image Registration Phase Detection Method technology.
The new DIGISUPER 100AF and DIGISUPER 86AF lenses are designed to help camera operators ensure that their shots are always in exact focus, even in challenging situations.
In addition to the Part-Time focus-check mode, a Full-Time mode helps camera operators during long shoots. Either way, the Canon DIGISUPER 100AF and DIGISUPER 86AF auto-focus lenses enable camera operators to apply their full attention to the creative aspects of framing HD images and following the action in the scene.
For more information, visit http://www.usa.canon.com/.

Canon Digisuper Lenses Capture Live HD Images Of Space Shuttle Atlantis Launch For All-HDTV Network HDNet

From Creative Cow

(LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., September 21, 2006) While very few humans get the chance to travel on the space shuttle, even fewer get to be near the launch pad when astronauts begin their historic journeys. An array of Canon HD lenses, however, enabled the 24-hour all-high definition television network HDNet to take viewers where few have gone before to witness the launch of the Space Shuttle Atlantis, mission STS 115, on the morning of Saturday, September 9th.

HDNet, transmitting in 1080i HDTV to a wide range of cable and satellite television providers, relied on the triple-digit-zoom capabilities of the Canon DIGISUPER 100xs HD lens, as well as the superior HD optics of the Canon DIGISUPER 86xs and DIGISUPER 75xs long field HD lenses to ensure that the full power of the launch of the space shuttle – which could be the most complex machine ever built – was dramatically conveyed to television viewers. "A space shuttle launch is a magnificent thing to see, and there is no better way to see it than in HD," says Philip Garvin, Co-Founder and General Manager of HDNet. "Our Canon lenses bring tremendous presence and resolution to HDNet's coverage, and since NASA doesn't allow people to be where they do allow many of the cameras and lenses, viewing it in HD is actually better than being there."

Capable of a 1860 mm focal length and equipped with Canon's innovative Shift-IS Image Stabilization technology, the DIGISUPER 100xs lens is charged with the special mission of tracking space shuttles as they accelerate into the cosmos for at least 176,000 feet, which amounts to 33 miles into the Earth's atmosphere. "We have the Canon DIGISUPER 100xs lens deployed on a special rig that tracks the shuttle into the sky, and we switch to that camera and lens directly after liftoff," Garvin explains. "When you combine the strength of that lens with the resolution of HD, it's like you're right up there with the space shuttle."

The launch of Space Shuttle Atlantis on mission STS 115 was a significant one, marking NASA's first addition to the International Space Station in almost four years. During three spacewalks, crewmembers of Atlantis installed the P3/P4 integrated truss and a second set of solar panels that will double the orbiting outpost's ability to generate electrical power from sunlight and add 17.5 tons to its mass.

With the Canon DIGISUPER 100xs lens on hand, complemented by the Canon DIGISUPER 86xs and DIGISUPER XJ75xs HD lenses at various locations on or near the launch pad, HDNet knew it would provide the best possible imagery to cover the beginning of this critical mission. "Canon optics are excellent – they always compare favorably in our evaluations," says Garvin. "We also feel that we enjoy a great relationship with Canon's engineering and sales staff. They absolutely deliver on their promise of prompt support, whether the event is a shuttle launch, NASCAR race, basketball, or football."

The DIGISUPER 100xs lens is the world's first triple-digit zoom lens and is one of four in Canon's line of DIGISUPER long field lenses intended for both HDTV and SDTV production. This product line also includes: the DIGISUPER 86x lens(offered in the XJ86x9.3BIE-D standard version and the XJ86x13.5BIE-D telephoto version); the DIGISUPER 75xs lens (XJ75x9.3BIE-D); and the DIGISUPER 60xs lens (XJ60x9BIE-D).

Canon's unique second-generation built-in Image Stabilization (or Shift-IS) system enables directors and producers to capture rock-solid images from telephoto distances with crystal clarity and deliver them virtually shake-free to viewing audiences. The DIGISUPER lens line also features Canon's XS technology for improved optical performance and lighter weight, courtesy of Canon's exclusive Power Optical System. And all Canon DIGISUPER lenses incorporate the company's second-generation Digital Servo System, which provides microcomputer compensation of lens focus breathing (the inadvertent alteration of field of view when operating the focus control) as well as a host of other improved digital operational features for focus and zooming control. Canon's DIGISUPER lenses deliver precision HDTV and SDTV production performance and heightened long-range zoom capabilities, features that have made Canon a standard of excellence in sports, entertainment, and studio production.

On location from astronaut suit-up to launch with Canon HD lenses, HDNet is helping to enlighten a whole new generation of viewers on the importance and majesty of space flight. "We feel strongly that our coverage has renewed people's passion for watching launches, simply because it's so amazing to see in HD," Philip Garvin observes. "When you embark on a broadcast mission this important, you look for suppliers that will really go to work for you – Canon is one that we can count on."

For more information on HDNet, visit http://www.hd.net/

Canon Introduces Industry’s Widest Portable 2/3-inch HD Lens

Canon’s new HJ14ex4.3B portable lens is an even-wider version of their last 2/3-inch HD wide angle, providing a horizontal view unlike any other handheld before it.

The company’s existing HJ11ex4.7B wide-angle for HD production has become the worldwide choice for capturing everything from pro sports and major entertainment events, to news, episodic TV series, documentaries, and more.

“Based on our initial feedback from early users, anticipation is quite high in the industry for this new-generation wide-angle portable HDTV lens,” said Larry Thorpe, national marketing executive, Broadcast and Communications division, Canon U.S.A. “I firmly believe that Canon’s new HJ14ex4.3B will set a new industry standard of optical excellence for wide, long-zoom portable HD lens performance combined with unprecedented image clarity, sharpness, and operational advantages that will further enhance the HD video reproduction of the many superb new 2/3-inch cameras and camcorders that have recently entered into the marketplace.”

The HJ14ex4.3B is the result of a combination of Canon’s latest computer-assisted (CAD) tools, newly developed glass elements, and highly advanced optical coatings. The HJ14ex4.3B combines an extended 14 times zoom range and unprecedented 4.3mm-wide angle, while also improving on the exceptional optical performance of its predecessor. In addition, the lens’ newly developed Digital Drive unit provides improved operability and ergonomic advances for user comfort and convenient control of lens functions.

“We believe the HJ14 to be the world’s widest-angle lens in the professional realm of 2/3-inch lenses,” said Thorpe, adding that the HJ14 is the result of many creative suggestions received over the years from HJ11 users worldwide. He also revealed that Canon had applied considerable R&D effort into the development of the HJ14; in three major ways.

“One was to make this new lens even wider, while simultaneously making further reductions in chromatic aberrations and geometric distortion,” he said. “The second was to increase its focal range. The third was to expand the contrast range and minimize optical artifacts caused by strong light sources.”

These are extremely challenging goals from a design point of view, but Canon succeeded magnificently in all respects, and preliminary user reports are tremendously encouraging.

“Demand for portable HDTV lenses for cameras with 2/3-inch imagers continues to increase, year by year,” Thorpe said. “Using the highly successful HJ11 as its starting point, Canon has made a great lens even better with its new HJ14ex4.3B wide-angle portable HDTV lens.”

Wide, Advanced Optical Performance
Canon’s new HJ14ex4.3 wide-angle portable HDTV lens features a minimum focal length of 4.3mm and an angular field of view of 96.3 degrees at the wide end of the 16:9 HDTV aspect ratio. This optical performance is combined with a 14x zoom range reaching to 60mm (120mm with extender), which greatly expands creative options for the acquisition of crystal-clear, and virtually distortion-free HDTV video images.

Canon’s mastery of computer-based optical design techniques and use of the most contemporary optical technologies (including aspherical elements) has resulted in a unique optical layout for the HJ14ex4.3 portable HDTV lens that enables it to maintain higher resolution at both the center of the picture and the extremities of the 16:9 image plane. In addition, the adoption of new multi-layer optical coating technologies facilitate rich black reproduction, excellent transmittance efficiency and spectral response, and enhanced contrast range, while also contributing to control of undesirable ghosting artifacts caused by strong light sources. Innovative optical design techniques were also used to further diminish focus breathing and light fall-off from picture center to corners (especially at longer focal length settings). Canon has also made achievements in the minimization of chromatic aberrations and geometric distortion.

Improved Operability, Digital Drive, and Lighter Weight Using a 3D CAD-CAM design, Canon mechanically redesigned its new Digital Drive unit, employing free-form curves based on the shapes of human hands to make it narrower and shorter. At the same time, the redesign opened the spacing between the Digital Drive unit and the focus ring to avoid accidental interference with the unit while manipulating the focus control. It features new specialty rubber coatings that enhances tactile interface with the operator's hand.

The overall result is improved user operability resulting in the reduction of operator stress and fatigue, especially during prolonged shooting. The new HJ14ex4.3B also employs a smaller hood, which helps the camera operator view more of the actual scene.

Canon pioneered Digital Drive units for its portable lenses. The updated design of the Digital Drive unit for the new HJ14ex4.3B incorporates Canon-developed, ultra-compact rotary encoders capable of 0.1um position detection. They employ Canon’s unique Micro Roofmirror Array (MRA) technology to produce 16-bit resolution of the positions of the zoom, iris, and focus controls. These provide a means by which camera operators can digitally program precise and repeatable settings into their lenses for speed, focus and iris as well as zoom positions.

An LCD display built into the Digital Drive unit makes precise customization quick and convenient. The Digital Drive unit extends programmability of all lens operations and also provides (via three connectors) for the simple and direct digital integration of this new portable HDTV lens into virtual studio systems.

“Based on our initial feedback from early users, anticipation is quite high in the industry for this new-generation wide-angle portable HDTV lens,” Thorpe said. “I firmly believe that Canon’s new HJ14ex4.3B will set a new industry standard of optical excellence for wide, long-zoom portable HD lens performance combined with unprecedented image clarity, sharpness, and operational advantages that will further enhance the HD video reproduction of the many superb new 2/3-inch cameras and camcorders that have recently entered into the marketplace.”

Canons U.S.A. Introduces Several Important HD Lenses

Canon U.S.A., has expanded its broadcast lens selection with the introduction of several new products at the 2009 NAB Show. These include the:

HJ14ex4.3B Wide-Angle Portable HDTV Lens, a wide-angle portable HDTV lens, which is the product of Canon’s latest development tools, newly developed glass elements, and highly advanced optical coatings. The HJ14ex4.3B combines an extended 14 times zoom range and unprecedented 4.3mm wide angle while also improving on the exceptional optical performance of its predecessor. In addition, the HJ14ex4.3B’s newly developed Digital Drive unit provides improved operability and ergonomic advances for user comfort and convenient control of lens functions. KJ17ex7.7B 2/3-Inch HDgc Lens, a ’second-generation’ HDgc lens that draws upon all that was learned with the original HDgc products. This lens features an optimized design based upon recent advances in Canon’s computer-based optical-design tools and the use of the most contemporary optical technologies. Canon’s new KJ17ex7.7B HDgc lens represents a higher bar in cost-effective imaging value and performance for a wide range of broadcast and professional users.

The BU-50H Remote-Control Robotic Indoor Pan-Tilt HD Camera System is a follow-up to Canon’s BU-45H remote-control outdoor robotic pan-tilt HD 16:9 camera system. The BU-50H remote-control robotic indoor pan-tilt HD camera system is engineered to provide exceptional HD video imagery and versatile performance in locations such as houses of worship, legislative chambers, studio POV camera positions, indoor security areas, and many other environments. The BU-50H is an extremely quiet P/T system and features a maximum noise level of NC30. It is well-suited for operation in very quiet environments, including studios, conferences, lectures and classical music concerts.

The Day/Night DJ40x14B HD Zoom Lens is the member of the long-zoom portable lens family. The Day/Night DJ40x14B lens provides the ability to image subjects in total darkness when illuminated by near-infrared (IR) light. The Canon Day/Night DJ40x14B HD zoom lens is designed to work with the many day/night video cameras available from professional camera manufacturers, and it offers a broad

Bexel Chooses Canon's New HJ15ex8.5B Portable HD Zoom Lens with Built-in Image Stabilization for its Rentals Division

From Broadcast Equipment Guide,

As HD video production activity with portable 2/3-inch cameras and camcorders continues to increase, so does the need for effective image stabilization in many situations.

Whether it’s capturing scenes of marathon runners from the back of a motorcycle or shooting a live news event from a TV helicopter, camera shake is more noticeable in HD because of its greater picture resolution and considerably larger display size. Addressing this challenge, Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, introduced the HJ15ex8.5B portable HD zoom lens, the world’s first portable HD zoom lens with built-in Optical Image Stabilization.

Designed to maintain stable images even when the camera is subject to jolts and vibrations, the HJ15ex8.5B uses a refined version of Canon’s patented Vari-Angle Prism Image-Stabilizer (VAP-IS) technology to achieve a high level of steadiness all the way from wide-angle to telephoto settings.

Recognizing the importance of this new lens to the HD production industry, Bexel, a unit of the Vitec Group’s Services Division and a leading worldwide provider of broadcast services and solutions, has now added the HJ15ex8.5B to its equipment rental inventory.

“We have five of Canon’s standard-definition VAP lenses and they have been a good rental product for us,” said Bexel Chief Operating Officer Tom Dickinson. “We’ve been looking for an HD replacement for those and have found it in Canon’s new HJ15ex8.5B lens. It’s a very good product that many discerning clients will need for specific projects.”

Dickinson explained that Bexel evaluated the Canon HJ15ex8.5B before purchasing it by spending a week shooting HD video in different situations.

“As owners of Canon’s standard-definition VAP lenses, our engineering department knew all the stress points to put it under and how to test it,” he noted. “We were very pleased with how well the new HJ15ex8.5B performed. Canon has done a lot of work on providing switches on the lens that are specifically designed for certain situations.”

The HJ15ex8.5B lens provides four selectable stabilization modes to allow camera operators to optimize the degree of correction under diverse – and often unique – outdoor shooting conditions. The lens is ideally suited for different situations because it can stabilize a wide range of vibration frequencies.

Examples range from the low-frequency vibrations encountered on a camera operator’s shoulder in a jostling crowd situation, to tripod-mounted operation on shaky platforms, to the higher-frequency vibration that cameras are subject to when operated inside TV news helicopters, motor vehicles, motorbikes, or boats. The image-stabilization capabilities of the HJ15ex8.5B lens frees camera operators to fully concentrate on creative framing, focusing, and capture of HD imagery.

In addition to its image-stabilization capabilities, Dickinson is also impressed with the optical quality of the new Canon HJ15ex8.5B portable HD lens.

“VAP-IS is a very sophisticated technology,” he said. “We were concerned whether HD would amplify its challenges. It turns out we were pleasantly surprised. Canon actually did a very good job of achieving excellent image-stabilization in the HJ15ex8.5B lens while also maintaining very high picture quality. We think that clients are going to be very pleasantly surprised with the optical brilliance of this lens.”

Canon’s unique VAP-IS technology comprises a prism that is flexible in two dimensions. This entails a novel optical group made up of two flat glass elements joined by a sealed bellows containing a high-refractive-index liquid. It is positioned directly in front of the lens-input focusing group.

Physical perturbations to the lens, in the form of jolts or vibrations, are sensed and this information is processed in a high-speed microcomputer, which in turn generates two control signals that are converted to drive two actuators that grip the VAP unit. These, in turn, flex the bellows horizontally and/or vertically proportional to the amplitude of the lens perturbations.

The associated distortion of the liquid instantaneously alters the direction of the transmitted light rays in a manner designed to counter the incoming light-ray displacements created by these disturbances. The system has been optimized to operate at very high speed, achieving close to real-time compensation for image instabilities arising from all forms of lens-camera operational unsteadiness. The new lens helps eliminate image unsteadiness when operating with any of the major high definition 2/3-inch cameras and camcorders.

Although highly sophisticated, Canon’s unique VAP-IS technology allows the remarkably compact HJ15ex8.5B portable HD lens to weigh-in at only 4.4 lbs., which is considerably lighter than other image-stabilization solutions for portable ENG-style HD cameras. This can help to extend location-shooting flexibility, where size and weight are important factors.

“We also like Canon’s new HJ15ex8.5B portable HD lens because it’s a complete, self-contained item,” Dickinson said. “It’s convenient to provide to our clients. This is a lens that fits a perfect niche, so it’s ideal for rentals.”

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CSP Mobile Productions Chooses Several Canon U.S.A. HDTV Lens Models for Its Newest Production Vehicles

From Digital Content Producer,

LAKE SUCCESS, N.Y., January 5, 2011 – CSP Mobile Productions, the Maine-based specialists in northeast college sports coverage, have selected 19 HDTV lenses from Canon U.S.A., Inc., a leader in digital imaging, for the cameras carried by its two newest 53-ft. mobile production vehicles. The trucks, designated HD-1 and HD-3, will divide a complement of two XJ100×9.3B, four XJ86×9.3B, and five XJ72×9.3B long-zoom Canon HD field lenses, as well as eight HJ22ex7.6B portable HD ENG lenses.

“We’ve had phenomenal results with Canon in the truck environment, which can be extremely demanding,” said Len Chase, president/co-owner of CSP Mobile Productions. “The XJ86 has been the mainstay of our SD-5 truck for years, and our full store of Canon lenses has been rock-solid for us.”

CSP Mobile Productions’ newest trucks – the HD-1 expando and HD-3 straight truck – will be used for the production of a year-round schedule of college sports in 720p primarily for ESPN and ESPN2. For Chase, Canon’s ongoing customer service commitment was a major factor in his purchase decision. “Whenever we need something solved, Canon’s team has the answers,” he noted. “The service we receive from Canon is unparalleled. The difference in the truck world is operability and serviceability. If it’s not user-friendly for our camera operators, or easy to service, then it’s not useful to us. We don’t have those issues with Canon.”

Canon’s long-field HDTV zoom lenses are the most widely used lenses in HD sports and entertainment production. Lenses in this “DIGISUPER” product line include the XJ100×9.3B (the world’s first triple-digit HD zoom lens) and the XJ100×9.3B AF and the XJ86X9.3B AF, which feature Canon’s unique Auto Focus technology to assist camera operators in instantly achieving exact focus at all times. CSP Mobile Productions’ Canon XJ100×9.3B and XJ86×9.3B HD lenses both feature Canon’s unique Image Stabilizer technology for rock-solid shots at telephoto distances. Both of these lenses, as well as CSP Mobile Productions’ new Canon XJ72×9.3B HD lenses, all feature specialized multilayer coatings on each optical element, advanced computer-aided lightweight design, heightened long-range zoom capabilities, and the HD optical precision that have made Canon a global leader in the field.

All of these long-field HD zoom lenses also utilize Canon’s second-generation digital servo systems for improved ease-of-operation and superb tactile control of zoom, iris, and focus, precision repeatability of settings, and microcomputer compensation of lens-focus breathing (the inadvertent alteration of field-of-view when operating the focus control).

Canon’s HJ22ex7.6B is the Company’s longest focal length portable HD zoom lens offered (without an image stabilization system). The lens also features an advanced Digital Drive unit for precise, automated repeatability of lens settings, which is a handy feature for fast-moving sports coverage.

As a member of Alliance Productions, a strategic collaboration of mobile production service providers, CSP Mobile is experiencing increased demand for its HD units. “What the Alliance offers to us is the flexibility to serve a wider variety of clients across the United States, beyond the East Coast where we primarily operate,” said Chase. “And now that we’re fully HD capable, that makes us even more of an asset to them.”

For every assignment, having Canon on board ensures that CSP Mobile is ready for anything. “We’re an engineering company, and with Canon we’re always prepared to meet any and all of our clients’ needs,” Chase affirmed. “Between the performance, ease of use, reliability and service its clear why we’ve stayed with Canon lenses.”

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